Old Testament
Isaiah 37:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Now therefore, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone are the LORD.
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Now therefore, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou art the LORD, even thou only.
What Isaiah 37:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, King Hezekiah is pleading with God for deliverance from the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, who threatens Jerusalem. He acknowledges God as the only true Lord and seeks divine intervention not just for their safety, but so that all nations will recognize God's sovereignty. This reflects a deep understanding of God's power and a desire for His glory to be revealed through their situation. Hezekiah's prayer emphasizes the importance of relying on God in times of crisis and recognizing that God's actions can lead others to acknowledge His authority. The verse highlights the relationship between God's deliverance and the revelation of His identity to the world, showing that God's help is not just for individual benefit but serves a greater purpose in demonstrating His lordship over all creation.
How to apply Isaiah 37:20 to your life
In our own lives, we can turn to God in prayer during difficult times, asking for His help and guidance. This verse reminds us that our struggles can serve a greater purpose, revealing God's power and love to those around us. Trusting in God can inspire others to seek Him as well.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (Isaiah 37:1–38)
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Isaiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Isaiah 37:20
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the context of Isaiah 37:20?
Isaiah 37:20 occurs during a critical moment when King Hezekiah of Judah is facing a siege by the Assyrian king, Sennacherib. Hezekiah seeks God's help, recognizing the dire situation and the threat to Jerusalem. This prayer reflects his faith and dependence on God for deliverance, emphasizing the need for divine intervention in the face of overwhelming odds.
What does Hezekiah mean by 'save us from his hand'?
In this verse, 'save us from his hand' refers to Hezekiah's plea for God to protect Jerusalem from the Assyrian king's military aggression. He is asking for deliverance from the imminent danger posed by Sennacherib, who has already conquered many nations. This request highlights Hezekiah's reliance on God's power to save His people.
Why does Hezekiah want all kingdoms to know the LORD?
Hezekiah desires that all kingdoms recognize the sovereignty of God through their deliverance. By asking for God's intervention, he hopes that the miraculous salvation of Jerusalem will serve as a testimony to God's power and authority, prompting other nations to acknowledge Him as the one true Lord. This reflects a broader purpose beyond personal safety.
How can Isaiah 37:20 be applied in modern life?
Isaiah 37:20 encourages us to turn to God in prayer during our own crises, trusting in His ability to deliver us from difficult situations. It reminds us that our struggles can reveal God's power and love to others, inspiring them to seek Him. This verse teaches the importance of faith and reliance on God, showing that our challenges can serve a greater purpose.
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